Spectroradiometric Analyses of Commercial Photobiomodulation Technologies- MHSRS 2024

Hollander M, hagen j, givens m, metzger e, anders j, wagner l, isaacson b, pasquina p, hager n

Abstract accepted for poster presentation at the 2024 Military Health System Research Symposium

Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) utilizes light sources such as LEDs in order to provide a noninvasive means to enhance performance and accelerate recovery. Currently, practitioners utilize photobiomodulation devices in musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation, physical performance enhancement, and cognitive optimization. This study intends to address a critical gap in the understanding of PBMT technologies by providing empirical validations of the spectral and irradiance outputs of commercially available PBM devices.

This study investigated full body photobiomodulation (PBM) light beds. The study team utilized a spectrometer to determine the respective wavelengths produced by each device. Irradiance measurements were determined using a power meter and a specific area of illumination. Measurements collected at consistent intervals along the X and Y axes of the devices investigated variability across the illuminated surfaces. Additional variability assessments were based on body placement, treatment distances, and comparisons of the top and bottom canopy of PBM light beds. In addition, irradiance variations over a day of treatments and during independent sessions were measured. Utilizing these repeated measurements, the impact of temperature on irradiance was determined.

The spectral and irradiance investigations highlight the distinct characteristics of each device and help inform ideal-use scenarios between the commercial PBMT devices. These preliminary findings offer a comprehensive understanding of irradiance variability in PBMT to help preface future clinical investigations on the use of this cutting-edge technology in military contexts.